Jackie Lake, Physical Therapist with Prairie Lakes Rehabilitation Services completed a certification to enhance her practice treating patients with vestibular dysfunctions. These dysfunctions often include the symptoms of vertigo, dizziness, and feeling off-balance.
The most common disorders which may benefit from vestibular rehab include BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), vestibular migraine, head injury or concussion, age-related dizziness and imbalance, labyrinthitis, and vestibular neuritis. Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis is caused by an inflammation in the inner ear or the nerves of the inner ear (usually from a common cold or virus). Labyrinthitis also involves hearing loss while neuritis does not. Once medically stable, these patients can benefit from vestibular rehab to treat lingering symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, visual disturbances, unsteadiness, and/or difficulty with completing daily tasks.
The Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation (CCVR) Course required Lake to demonstrate her elevated skills over a period of six months. Jackie has practiced PT for 21 years with the past 10 years specializing in therapy for vestibular dysfunctions. The CCVR course was created for practicing professionals, allowing therapists like Lake to deepen their understanding and enhance their practice.
“Vestibular disorders can cause a variety of symptoms including vertigo and dizziness, visual disturbances, motion sensitivity, and unsteady balance,” said Lake. “It can also affect the way we think and process information and can lead to or complicate anxiety and depression symptoms and decreased quality of life. I am excited to offer a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment option for patients whose lives have been affected by these symptoms.”
Those who experience dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance can ask their provider or physician for a referral to Jackie Lake at Prairie Lakes Rehabilitation Services. For more information call 605-882-7700.